‘What do you want here?’ asked Ivanoff sharply.
‘I’ve come on business.’
‘What business?’
‘Very unpleasant business. I am empowered to search your house. Here is my authority.’ He displayed a blue document bearing the Government seal.
Vassilo’s wife had recovered her presence of mind by this time, and, going to her husband’s side, she remarked:
‘Oh, I suppose this is some absurd denunciation on the part of an enemy, for I am afraid that even I and my husband have enemies. But, happily for us, we never interfere in politics; we are content to lead peaceful lives.’
‘It is not a question of politics,’ answered the Judge, his gruff manner somewhat softening as he gazed upon the beautiful young wife and felt sympathy for her.
‘Not politics!’ she exclaimed, in new alarm, as she glanced at her husband’s face, which had become very pale.
‘No; my visit has nothing to do with politics.’
‘Why are you here, then?’ demanded Mrs. Ivanoff anxiously.